The CZ arriving in Chicago today had three sleepers and a transition sleeper (plus a single-level cafe car behind the baggage car, go figure). I suspect that was because VIPs were onboard with the debut of the new engines (four total on this train).
Being four hours late was annoying (and they had to repair a busted air hose after leaving Ottumwa) but it was a good trip otherwise. Can confirm Siemens and Amtrak folks were onboard the entire time. Crew was the best I’ve ever had and they didn’t run out of anything except the lemon cake.
South side gets you good views of the Truckee River and Donner Lake but north side gets you the best views in Glenwood Canyon (which if before where you’d be boarding).
I’m on that train right now. It also has an extra sleeper (four total including the transition sleeper). There appear to be some Siemens folks on board.
So I’m on the EB Zephyr now, boarding in Sacramento this morning. First off, staff at the station was great and they have a separate waiting room for sleeper passengers with free soft drinks, water and snacks. Very nice surprise.
So here’s the consist (and I’m not an expert on this): 4 new...